Salem, OR – Salem city leaders unveiled a budget proposal on Wednesday that outlines substantial cuts to public services, including reductions in library hours and the cessation of water services to most city parks starting this summer. The budget, totaling $764 million, is set to undergo a series of reviews before being finalized by the Salem City Council, which is expected to adopt it in June. However, much of the proposed cuts could be reversed if voters approve a property tax levy in May.
Proposed Budget Cuts
The budget proposal includes deep cuts across several sectors, particularly affecting public services for families, youth, and seniors. Among the most significant reductions are:
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Library Services: The Salem Public Library system would see a dramatic reduction in operating hours, with the main branch operating only 20 hours per week, down from the current 38 hours. The West Salem branch would close entirely. Programming at the library, including storytime, outreach to senior living facilities, and community events, would be scaled back or eliminated altogether.
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Parks and Recreation: The proposal also calls for the discontinuation of water services at most neighborhood parks, meaning splash pads, bathrooms, and water fountains will be shut off. The only exception would be at larger parks such as Riverfront Park, where splash pads would remain operational. Youth recreational programs, particularly those offered during the summer, are also expected to be reduced.
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City Employment: A total of 51 full-time positions would be eliminated, including 20 at the library and 15 in the parks department. Many of these positions are currently vacant, but the cuts would still impact service delivery in these essential areas.
Why the Cuts?
Despite an increase in the total city budget from $191 million to $196 million, the proposed cuts are necessary due to rising costs for staffing, equipment, and the state pension system. While the city collects more revenue through property taxes each year, these increases have not kept pace with inflation and rising costs. As a result, significant cuts to public services are required to balance the budget.
In addition to staff reductions, the city has implemented other cost-saving measures. These include halving supply budgets across most city departments, eliminating overnight travel, and delaying non-essential equipment replacements, except for police vehicles. Furthermore, overtime pay would be eliminated, except when required to maintain minimum staffing levels for public safety. These measures are expected to save the city approximately $1.3 million through July and another $1.1 million next year.
What’s at Stake?
The proposed cuts would have a particularly harsh impact on families, seniors, and young people. Library closures and reduced hours would limit access to books and essential educational resources, while cutbacks in youth programs could leave many children without the recreational opportunities they need during the summer months. Seniors who rely on services at Center 50+ would face reduced programming and limited access, with the center closed on weekends and evenings unless reserved for special events.
The Property Tax Levy and Its Potential Impact
A key element of the proposed budget is a property tax levy that will appear on the ballot in May. If voters approve the levy, it is expected to generate $14 million for the city’s next fiscal year, allowing many of the proposed cuts to be reversed. According to Interim City Manager Krishna Namburi, if the levy passes, the city will present a revised budget to the budget committee and ultimately to the city council for approval.
What Happens Next?
Salem’s budget committee, which includes city councilors, the mayor, and nine appointed community volunteers, will begin its review of the budget on April 16. The committee will meet regularly until mid-May to discuss possible revisions and gather public feedback. Community members are encouraged to attend the meetings, submit written comments, or sign up to testify. More information about the budget process and meeting schedules can be found on the city’s website.
With critical decisions looming, all eyes will be on the May vote for the property tax levy, which could shape the future of the city’s services and its budget for years to come.
